Publishing the research of SIL in Suriname Suriname is situated on the northeast coast of South America, between Guyana and French Guiana, and is home to about 15 distinct languages. Since it was a colony of The Netherlands until 1975, the official language of Suriname is Dutch. Other languages spoken in Suriname include several Amerindian languages, several Creole languages, Suriname Javanese and Sarnami Hindustani. SIL researchers first came to Suriname in 1968 and worked for more than 30 years doing language and anthropological research, literacy, as well as producing dictionaries, reading books, grammar descriptions, and doing translation. Since 2001, SIL no longer has an official presence in the country. This site makes their research available to anyone who is interested in learning more about these languages. Materials on this site include interactive html dictionaries which allow you to search for words online, vernacular stories and a pdf bibliography (143Kb) of all of the works SIL published in Suriname. What Languages Do Latin Americans Speak? | USA Today What Languages Do Latin Americans Speak?

Common Spanish Words Latin America typically refers to the nations of South and Central America, but technically it refers to all the countries that once belonged to the empires of Spain and Portugal during the discovery of the American continents. As such, it also includes many of the Caribbean island nations, as well as Mexico, Brazil and Colombia. Because of the heritage of these nations, Spanish and Portuguese are most commonly spoken, but there are many other languages in the region as well. Spanish Spanish, as it is spoken in the Americas, is not the same Spanish as spoken in Spain. They are different dialects of the same language, and Spanish in Latin America is referred to as Latinoamerica, and Spanish in Spain is referred to as castellano. Spanish is the most widely spoken language in Latin America, and it is the primary language in every South American country except Brazil, Suriname and French Guyana, as well as Puerto Rico, Cuba and several other islands. Portuguese Portuguese is spoken throughout South America, but it is the primary language of only one nation: Brazil. Brazil is the most populous and largest country in South America, so even though Portuguese is not the primary language elsewhere on the continent, almost half the population of South America speaks it.

Though the Portuguese spoken in Brazil differs from the Portuguese spoken in Portugal, it is not considered a different language. Other Languages English is widely spoken in Latin America, especially in areas that are popular tourist destinations, in cities and among young people. It is not a native language of any Latin American nation. French is spoken in certain areas of Latin America, including Haiti and French Guyana, where it is the primary language. Due to large native populations in the South American interior, as well as a melting pot of languages in the Caribbean, it is difficult to say how many other languages and dialects are spoken in Latin America, but other languages include Jamaican Creole, Mayan and Quechua, the language of the Incas. Dutch is also spoken in the Latin American region, in both Suriname in South America and on some Caribbean islands. However, Dutch is spoken in countries that were not part of the Spanish and Portuguese empires, so according to that definition, these nations are not part of Latin America. References History of the Spanish Language in Latin America About the Author Beau Prichard has been a freelance writer and editor since 1999. He specializes in fiction, travel and writing coaching.

He has traveled in the United Kingdom, Europe, Mexico and Australia. Prichard grew up in New Zealand and holds a Bachelor of Arts in writing from George Fox University. What languages are spoken in South America? - Quora Quora Portuguese in Brazil, english in Guyana, dutch in Suriname, french in French Guiana, and Spanish in all the other countries. Some communities do still use indigenous languages such as quechua or guaraní. For more detail: As far as I know: 1. Spanish (most countries). 3. French (in French Guyana). 4. English (in Guyana and the Malvinas). 5. Dutch (in Surinam). 6. Guaraní (as a second official language in Paraguay). 7. Quechua and Aymara (As a second language in Perú). And multitude of other native languages and dialects (too many to mention). In different countries. But mostly Spanish. Spanish, Portuguese, French, English and Dutch - Quechua and Aymara- major indigenous languages Italian is spoken in southern Brazil and Welsh in Patagonia. There are also hundreds of indigenous languages, the most useful being Quechua.

262 Views Written Dec 29 I was first on scene of a pretty serious accident, some asshat decided to pass a bunch cars in the fog and t-boned a lady who panicked and turned out of the path of this fool. Everybody was injured and one of the cars was on fire. I called for fire and aid and asked for the State Patrol as this was in their jurisdiction. I checked on the lady driver, she was seriously injured but strapped in be... Suriname Language and Languages Genealogy - FamilySearch Wiki Family History Centers An exceptional variety of languages is spoken in Suriname. Dutch is the official language. It is used mainly in education, government, business and the media. Suriname became the third member of the Dutch Language Union in 2004. Dutch is spoken as a mother tongue by about 60% of the Surinamers, while most others speak it as a second or third language. In the capital Paramaribo it is the main home language in two thirds of the households. Only in the interior of Suriname is Dutch hardly known.

Recognised regional languages: Sranan Tongo, Hindi, English, Sarnami, Javanese, Malay, Bhojpuri, Hakka, Cantonese, Saramaccan, Paramaccan, Ndyuka, Kwinti, Matawai, Cariban, Arawakan Kalina Sranan Tongo, a local creole language originally spoken by the Creole population group, is the most widely used language in the streets and often interchangeably with Dutch depending on the formality of the setting. Surinamese Hindi, a dialect of Bhojpuri, is the third-most used language, spoken by the descendants of British Asian contract workers. Javanese is spoken by the descendants of Javanese (Indonesian) contract workers. The Maroon languages, somewhat intelligible with Sranan Tongo, include Saramaka, Paramakan, Ndyuka, Aukan, Kwinti and Matawai. Amerindian languages, spoken by Amerindians, include Carib and Arawak. Hakka Chinese and Cantonese are spoken by the descendants of the Chinese contract (koelie, coolie) workers. Mandarin is spoken by more recent Chinese immigrants.

English, Spanish and Portuguese are also used. English is used in schools and business purposes, while Spanish and Portuguese are spoken by South American residents (Portuguese for Brazilians) and their descendants and also taught in schools. The public discourse about Suriname's languages is a part of ongoing debates about the country's national identity. While Dutch is perceived as a remnant of colonialism by some, the use of the popular Sranan became associated with nationalist politics after its public use by former dictator Dési Bouterse in the 1980s, and groups descended from runaway slaves like the Maroons resent it. Some propose to change the national language to English, so as to improve links to the Caribbean and North America, or to Spanish, as a nod to Suriname's geography.

Surinamese - Introduction, Location, Language, Folklore, Religion, Major holidays, Rites of passage Surinamese POPULATION: 410,000 in Suriname; 200,000 in The Netherlands LANGUAGE: Dutch (official); English; Spanish; Sranan; Hindi; Sranan Tongo (Taki-Taki) RELIGION: Christianity; Hinduism; Islam 1 • INTRODUCTION Suriname became a British colony in 1650 and a Dutch colony in 1667. The Dutch made what has been called the worst land-swap deal in history. They took Suriname in exchange for Nieuw Amsterdam—or New York, as the British called it. The Dutch imported west African slaves to Suriname to work on sugarcane and coffee plantations. Later indentured workers (contract laborers) were brought from Java, China, and India to work in the fields. It is in this rich ethnic mixture that the modern Surinamese have their roots. Suriname's journey from independence in 1975 has been marred by military coups, political repression, and guerrilla warfare.

2 • LOCATION Formerly called Dutch Guiana, Suriname is the smallest country in South America. It also has the smallest population, estimated at 410,000 in 1990. Located on the north-central coast of South America, it has an area of 63,251 square miles (163,820 square kilometers). Suriname has a narrow coastal plain. Much of it is swampy and requires drainage systems and dikes. Low, forested mountain ranges cover 80 percent of the country. 3 • LANGUAGE The official language of Suriname is Dutch, but many people speak English. Sranan (a Creole language), Hindi, and other Asian Indian, African, and Amerindian languages are also spoken. Altogether, twenty-two languages are spoken. The most common language is Sranan Tongo, also called Taki-Taki. It combines elements of English, Dutch, and several African languages. 4 • FOLKLORE Many Surinamese folk tales are based on African traditions. They emphasize the African belief in the unity between all forms of life. They also stress the continuing link between the living and the dead.

Many of the stories take place in Africa. One particular type of folktale involves a cunning spider who outwits humans and animals. Riddles play an important part in Creole folklore. Despite European influence, the lai tori riddles are overwhelmingly of African origin. 5 • RELIGION The main religion in Suriname is Christianity, followed by Hinduism and Islam. Some Christian groups also follow traditional African practices such as Obeah and Winti. Winti is a largely secret religion from West Africa. It recognizes a multitude of gods and ghosts, each having its own myths, rites, offerings, taboos (forbidden acts), and magical forces. 6 • MAJOR HOLIDAYS The Muslim holiday Eid al-Fitr celebrates the end of fasting during Ramadan. The Hindu festival of Holi Phagwa is a lively event. Water, paint, and colored powder are thrown into the streets at people passing by. Independence Day, a major national holiday, is on November 25. 7 • RITES OF PASSAGE Naming ceremonies at birth are important among Surinamese of all religions. Wedding ceremonies are elaborate and colorful, with generous feasting. Circumcision of males is practiced by Muslims.

Hindus practice a birth ceremony called jatakarma . Traditionally it takes place before the umbilical cord is cut. The naming ceremony occurs ten days after the child is born. The different Christian sects baptize children according to their own religious traditions. 8 • RELATIONSHIPS Hindus in Suriname do not observe the caste system of the villages of India. However, Brahmins (people of the highest-ranking Brahmic caste) retain their special religious role, interpreting sacred rituals and Sanscrit texts. Anyone visiting a friend or acquaintance is expected to call on everyone they know in the same neighborhood. Not to do so is considered extremely rude. 9 • LIVING CONDITIONS Life expectancy is sixty-eight years for men and seventy-three for women, among the highest in South America. The country's economy suffered during the 1980s because of political instability. Health is generally good. Sanitary conditions and nutrition are generally adequate. 10 • FAMILY LIFE Many of the Maroons (who are descended from escaped black African slaves) have more than one wife. Care of their children is entrusted to one parent at a time. Children spend their first four to six years with their mother. Many are then given to the father or another relative.

There may be further shifts at later ages based on the child's developing needs or the parents' situation. 11 • CLOTHING Many of the Javanese women in Suriname still wear sarongs as they would in Indonesia. The Creole women continue to wear the kotomissie , a traditional costume. It includes a handkerchief called an angisa. 12 • FOOD The food of Suriname reflects the country's ethnic diversity. Warungs— Javanese food stalls—serve bami goreng (fried noodles) and nasi goreng (fried rice). Creole food uses tubers, such as cassava and sweet potatoes. Plantains, similar to bananas, are eaten with chicken and seafood, including shrimp. Rice is the staple diet for most people. Pom is puréed taro root, spiced and served with kip (chicken). Moksie alesie is a rice dish with meat, chicken, white beans, tomatoes, peppers, and spices. 13 • EDUCATION Education is free and compulsory from the age of six years to twelve years. Most students leaving primary education continue into secondary school. Higher education is provided by the government at the Anton de Kom University.

Literacy rates (percent of the population who can read and write) are about 95 percent for both men and women. 14 • CULTURAL HERITAGE Drums are used to accompany the intense dancing during competitions known as "dance feasts." The drums of the Maroons must never be touched by a female. At night the mellow sounds of metallic music are heard in the capital city, Paramaribo. This is the famous traditional Javanese "gamelan" music. 15 • EMPLOYMENT The Asian Indians are mostly small farmers. Creoles in urban areas work mostly in retail, politics, and the professions. The Javanese work mainly on Dutch-owned plantations. Many families depend on relatives in the Netherlands who send home money. Some Surinamese add to their incomes by working illegally in neighboring Guyana and French Guiana. There are no unemployment benefits or other social welfare benefits. 16 • SPORTS Soccer is played in towns and villages everywhere. A great hero of the game is Ruud Gullit, of Suriname descent. He became the captain of the Dutch national team. Another popular sport is swimming.

17 • RECREATION Birdsong competitions are held in parks and public plazas on Sundays and holidays. People carrying their songbirds (usually small black tua-tuas) in cages are a frequent sight on the streets of Paramaribo. They may be on the way to a training session or simply taking the bird for a stroll. Young people enjoy outings, sporting events, and movies, as well as dancing. 18 • CRAFTS AND HOBBIES Many of the Maroons' huts display the fine woodcarvings for which they are famous and that adorn furniture, tools, and boots. The Afro-centered Maroon culture is also known for its sculpture. 19 • SOCIAL PROBLEMS Certain parts of the interior are controlled by groups of armed rebels. Warfare has driven many refugees from Maroon villages across the border into camps in French Guiana. The country is also undergoing a continuing economic crisis. Inflation was around 54 percent by mid-1993 and was heading toward 100 percent.

20 • BIBLIOGRAPHY Suriname travel guide - Wikitravel Understand[ edit ] IMPORTANT: at the moment (05/2016) Suriname has a problem with Inflation. Bring USD or EUR to change on the street for better rates! Most of the ATM's only accept Mastercard. VISA only works on Republic bank ATM. These once are rare. Climate[ edit ] Tropical; moderated by trade winds; yearly rain average 2200 mm. There are 2 dry seasons (February to March, August to November) and 2 rainy seasons (December to January, April to August). November is the generally the hottest month. Terrain[ edit ] Mostly rolling hills, rising towards maximum of around 1000 meters in the south; narrow coastal plain with mangrove swamps. Mostly tropical rain forest; great diversity of flora and fauna that is in excellent condition, though is increasingly threatened by new development. Elevation extremes History[ edit ] Independence from the Netherlands was granted in 1975. Five years later the civilian government was replaced by a military regime that soon declared a socialist republic.

It continued to rule through a succession of nominally civilian administrations until 1987, when internal and international pressure finally forced a democratic election. In 1989, the military overthrew the civilian government, but a democratically-elected government returned to power in 1991. Get in[ edit ] If you want to visit Suriname and you are not a citizen of one of the following countries, you have to ensure that your visa papers are in order. If you want to apply for a visa please contact one of the Suriname Consulates listed in Contact.

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Suriname: Antigua and Barbuda , Bahamas , Barbados , Belize , Brazil , Chile , Costa Rica (for holders of diplomatic and official passports only), Colombia (for holders of diplomatic and official passports only), Cuba (for holders of diplomatic and official passports only), Dominica , Philippines , Gambia , Guyana , Grenada , Hong Kong , Israel , Jamaica , Japan , Malaysia , Montserrat , Netherlands Antilles , Saint Kitts and Nevis , Saint Lucia , Saint Vincent and the Grenadines , Singapore , South Korea , Trinidad and Tobago , Venezuela (for holders of diplomatic and official passports only). Note that in most cases you will receive a single-entrance visa. So you only will be able to enter Suriname one time with that visa. In most cases this is no issue, but it can become an issue if you want to combine your trip to Suriname with a visit to for instance Guyana or French-Guiana. As of december 2010 single entry was 45USD and multiple entry 50USD in Georgetown for EU citizens. When you arrive in Suriname it is important that you inform the authorities where you are staying.

Therefore you must go to the foreigners registration office in the 'Nieuwe Haven' within a week after your arrival. The customs-official will remind you of this. New rules april 2015. All Europen union countries can get the tourist card on arrival . As of November 2011 citizens of the following countries can obtain a single entry 90 day tourist card for $25USD or €20 (cash) at The Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, at Schiphol Amsterdam airport (two hours before scheduled flights to Paramaribo) and at embassies of Surinam in Georgetown (Guyana) and Cayenne (French Guyana): Netherlands , Belgium , Bolivia , Canada , Chile , France , Germany , Norway , Paraguay , Peru , United States of America , United Kingdom , Uruguay , Venezuela . See The Suriname Embassy in The Hague [1] for more details. By plane[ edit ] Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport[ edit ] ( IATA : PBM, ICAO : SMJP) Formerly called Zanderij International Airport, it is located 45km south of Paramaribo. From Amsterdam you can get the daily KLM flight.

Surinam Airways [2] also offers flights from Amsterdam and various caribbean destinations. From the United States, airline service is available via Surinam Airways and Caribbean Airlines [3] , with a stopover in Trinidad. Besides the daily connection to the Netherlands , there are weekly direct flights to Suriname from Trinidad , Brazil ( Belem ), and Curacao . From there you can take the taxi or bus into town. A taxi (if private one) will cost around 80SRD. However, prices will vary between drivers. Make sure to arrange and set a price with the driver before going anywhere. in June 2014 a taxi from the city to the airport cost 150 SRD (if taken from the street up to 200 SRD). A (tourist) bus service cost 60 SRD or 15€ if you prefer to pay in €. This bus will pick you up at your guesthouse or hotel. The local bus cost 2,15 SRD, but is not reliable if you want to arrive at the airport in time. It leaves from the bus station at Heiligenweg in the center of Paramaribo.

Zorg-en-Hoop Airfield[ edit ] ( IATA : ORG, ICAO : SMZO) A small airfield located further from Paramaribo which is for a few private charter companies and primarily local/domestic flights. The following companies have a few daily flights from/to Ogle Aerodome in Georgetown_(Guyana) : Gum Air, Doekhieweg 03, Zorg-en-Hoop Airport, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ +597 433830 ( info@gumair.com , fax: +597 491740), [4] . M-Sa. edit Trans Guyana Airways (TGA), Ogle Aerodome, Ogle, East Coast Demerara, Guyana, ☎ 592-222-2525 ( commercial@transguyana.net ), [5] . M-Sa. edit By train[ edit ] There are currently no trains in Suriname, however a plan has been announced to reopen the line between Onverwacht and Paramaribo Central Station.

The completion date for phase one is hoped to be 2016 and the intention is for the line to be extended onto Paramaribo Adolf Pengel Airport. By car[ edit ] Guyana has road access to Suriname. In Guyana, Georgetown inquire in for mini-buses traveling to Suriname. Note that entering Suriname, Nieuw Nickerie by water travel from in Guyana is illegal. Buses leave Georgetown for the Surinamese border daily. Ask for Berbice car park. In the west(Guyana-Suriname border) there's a regular river ferry between Guyana and Suriname. There's a possibility of traveling from French Guiana by car (there a small car ferry between Suriname and French Guiana). In the east there are small boats and small ferry between Albina (Suriname) and St. Laurent ( French Guiana ) The price is usually around SRD 10,- or €5,- p.p. By bus[ edit ] For around SRD 30,- or €10,- you can take the bus from Albina (bordering French Guiana ) to Paramaribo.

From Georgetown , Guyana , take minibus #63a to Moleson Creek in eastern Guyana just across the river from Suriname. Ferries between the Guyanese and Surinamese sides of the river depart at 9am and 1pm. Minibuses typically depart Georgetown at 4am to arrive in time for the 9am ferry. The cost is approximately $US15 to the border however tickets for the whole trip through to Paramaribo are available for approximately $US30 - $US35. Ask at hotels for the numbers of drivers who will pick passengers up from their residences/hotels in Georgetown between 4:00am - 4:30am. There are also a number of drivers who depart Georgetown to meet the 1pm ferry although these are less common. Travelers will need to arrive at the border at least one hour before the scheduled departure to clear customs which is open from 6:30am - 8:00am for the 9am departure and 10:30am - noon for the 1pm departure. A one way fare costs approximately circa $US 10 payable in local currency.

The actual ferry ride takes about 30 minutes. From there you can get a minibus into Paramaribo. Again the trip takes at least 3 hrs and costs ~US$15. It is better to change GYD to SRD on the Guyanese side of the border where rates are more competitive. Opportunities to change money on the Surinamese side of the border are seemingly scarce and those desperate to change GYD there must be willing to accept a circa 20% loss in value upon exchange as opposed to circa 10% on the Guyanese side. Money changers typically only deal in GYD and SRD (US dollars or Euros are scarce). By boat[ edit ] In the east there are small boats and small ferry between Albina (Suriname) and St. Laurent ( French Guiana ) The price is usually around SRD 10,- or €5,- p.p. In the west there's a regular river ferry between Guyana and Suriname. Most minibuses from Georgetown and Paramaribo make sure they arrive in time for catching the 11 AM ferry. However there are ferries during the day (depending on traffic).

The return fare is 68 SRD (15€) and valid for a period of 21 days. Most minibuses do not cross the Corantijn river, though this would be possible as the ferry carries private vehicles. Get around[ edit ] Since not many tourists visit Suriname yet and the inner-land is not within easy reach, the expenses of travel are higher than you might expect. Tourist attractions can be more expensive than in Europe or the United States. It is expected that this will change in future since there is an annual increase visible in foreign tourists, creating the necessity of working on better roads as well as other ways of cheaper transportation. The best way to go around in Suriname is by boat or car. There are not that many roads going into the country. At every riverbank you can charter boats at reasonable prices. It is wise to travel with a tour guide. It is also an option to rent a car, although some rental companies don't allow you to go into the forest with their cars. Always rent a four-wheel drive. Suriname traffic drives at the left side of the road. Alternatively you can travel by bus.

Most places of some significance are linked by a system of minibuses that are privately as well as state owned. The national bus company's website . Their reputation is 'cheap and slow'. By air[ edit ] There are two local airlines providing private connections with the innerland. Bluewing Airlines [6] and Gumair [7] . Talk[ edit ] Dutch is the sole official language, and is the language of education, government, business, and the media. Over 60% of the population speaks Dutch as a mother tongue, and most of the rest speak it as a second language. Only in the interior of Suriname is Dutch seldom spoken. Sranang Tongo - an English creole language - is the native language of Creoles and much of the younger population, and is often used as a lingua franca between different ethnic groups. It was suppressed by the Dutch for many years, but it is now the most widely used language in Suriname other than Dutch. It was previously called nengre or negerengels (Dutch, "Negro English"). There is very little written material in Sranang Tongo. It is not too hard to learn.

Other languages spoken in Suriname include Sarnami (a dialect of Bhojpuri), Javanese and Chinese (Mandarin, Hakka and Cantonese). Most locals in Paramaribo speak English to varying degrees of fluency. English usage in rural areas is less common. See[ edit ][ add listing ] With almost a third of the country being declared national reserves, Suriname's main tourist attraction are its vast natural lands and the diversity of flora and fauna in them. Head to the beaches of Galibi and Albina to witness the impressive breeding process of large Leatherback sea turtles, or book a helicopter ride to one of the more remote beaches to see the same, with fewer people around. Spot river dolphins on the way and see the typical mangrove forests between the ocean and the rain forests. The Amazon rain forests cover most of the Surinam surface and is home to thousands of birds, reptiles, monkeys and even a handful of jaguars. As tourism develops, guided tours and resorts in the heart of the jungle are popping up and make a comfortable option if you want to spend a few days spotting wildlife or plants, including the rubber tree, spike-footed palms, plenty of orchids and cactusses.

Daytrips are an option too. The Central Suriname Nature Reserve is the most popular of the reserves and is home to the Raleigh waterfalls and mount Voltzberg. Brownsberg Nature Park is home to one of the largest man-made lakes in the world: the Brokopondo Reservoir. Visit Tonka Island to see the eco-tourism project that Saramaccaner Maroons have set up there. Maroon and Amerindian villages are found deep in the forests, but many of them also lie on the riverbanks. A boat trip down the Marowijne river, with French Guyana just on the other side, is a great way to see the best of the forest, visit some villages and and do some border hopping on the go. For a less adventurous day, try swimming in Cola Creek , a black water (Blaka Watra) recreational park some 50 km from Paramaribo and popular with Suriname families. On the way back, make sure to stop at the Jodensavanne (Jews savanna), where the Jews were allowed to settle in the 17th century. Now, only the ruins at this important historic place remind of those days.

Paramaribo itself is a pleasant place and its historic inner center is a Unesco World Heritage sight. The capital has many characteristics of a large village community and although there are few real landmarks and sights, is a nice place to spend some time. Linger on the Waterkant, the water side street with its old wooden, colonial houses and grab a bite from one of the food stands there. Go shopping at the Central Market and gaze at the Jules Wijdenboschbrug. Stroll to Fort Zeelandia, through the Palm tree garden and the Independence square. Make sure to include the Roman Catholic Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral in your walk, since it is the largest wooden building in South America. Former plantations will take you back to colonial times, when coffee and sugar where produced here. Some of the plantation houses have been renovated, and a few are even in use to make coffee and dry shrimp. Bike through the quiet and green area, between the banana plants, to visit former plantations with names like Einde Rust (End of Rest), Worsteling Jacobs (Struggle Jacobs), Zorgvliet and Zeldenrust (Rarely Rest).

Peperpot (Pepper pot) not far from Paramaribo on the other side of the Wijdenbosch bridge even has a 3,5 km trail with signs and explanations about what you see (entry 18 SRD). You will much enjoy the entertainment there like music and watching Association Football. Surinamese songs are called "pokoes" in Sranang Tongo. They have a great variety of music, because of the different cultures. Central Suriname Nature Reserve[ edit ] The Central Suriname Nature Reserve (CSNR) protects some of the most remote, ancient, and pristine wilderness on Earth. It comprises more than 1.6 million hectares of primary tropical forest. The Reserve forms a corridor linking the three most important protected areas in central Suriname: the Raleighvallen Nature reserve in the north, and the Tafelberg and Eilerts de Hann Gebergte Nature Reserves in the central and southern portion of the corridor. The area —an area the size of New Jersey— protects the watershed of one of Suriname's most important river systems, the Coppename River, where there are countless varieties of flora and fauna, many of them endemic.

The Raleighvallen Nature Reserve is one of the most important protected areas in South America. Vegetation there consists mostly of moist highland forest, the same forest that covers approximately 80 percent of Suriname. The Tafelberg Nature Reserve is in a remote area that includes the geographic center of suriname. This area is made up of primary rainforest and savanna ecosystems. The Eilerts de Hann Gebergte Nature Reserve has no human populations living within or around its boundaries. This reserve includes parts of the Eilerts de Hann Gebergte mountain range and is made up of primary tropical rain forest and savanna ecosystems. Since there has been very little exploration in this Reserve, very little is known about is flora and fauna. The Central Suriname Nature Reserve is an important precendent in protecting large blocks of undisturbed tropical wilderness. But it is only a first step. The challenge for Conservation International and its funding partners is to continue these efforts to protect the ecological viability of the world's last remaining tropical wilderness areas.

Conservation International has been active in Suriname since 1991, using an integrated approach that draws on both the knowledge and expertise of highly trained Surinamese conservationists as well as CI's on-the-ground experience in twenty-two other countries of the world. Rather than sell the country's forests to the highest-bidding timber companies, the Surinamese government made a commitment in 1998 to protect the forests and explore the long-term economic benefits of sustainable development and ecotourism. Conservation International (CI) joined Suriname to help design, fund, and promote this effort to carefully blend biodiversity conservation and economic opportunity. Seven years later, the uniquely constructed tourist facilities on Foengoe Island—tucked neatly within the CSNR—are poised to become a premier destination for ecotourism in the Guayana Shield, the massive, two billion-year-old geological formation that underlies five countries in northeastern South America. Raleighvallen Nature Reserve[ edit ] This nature reserve has an area of 78,170 ha and is situated along the Coppename River.

It can be reached by airplane (less than an hour) or by car (120 mi) to be followed by a 3-4 hour boat ride. The reserve headquarters and the tourist lodges are located on Fungo Island in the middle of the Coppename River. Raleighvallen (Raleigh Falls) is the name for the extensive set of rapids near Fungo Island in the upper Coppename River. The reserve is internationally known as a bird and monkey paradise. You'll see toucans, macaws and parrots and 400 other species. Hanging from the tree branches on and around Fungo Island you'll notice the pendulum-shaped nests of the weaver birds (oropendulas) which are large, colonial nesting birds with yellow outer feathers. These nests can be close to a meter long. Another interesting feature is the Voltzberg. This granite sugarloaf mountain can be reached on foot in about three hours by jungle trail from Foengoe Island. The Voltzberg rises about 150 m (375 ft) above the forest canopy. The night can be spent in a hammock in a simple jungle camp at the base of the mountain.

During the night you will be surrounded by the sounds of monkeys, tree frogs, and other creatures from the tropical rainforest. The reserve is also the home of the spectacular and rare cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola rupicola). There is the possibility, as well, of encountering deer, tortoises, tinamous, and several species of monkey on the 7 km (one-way) hike to the mountain. The trail is good but the damp climate of the rainforest, and the steep climb up the Volzberg, make it a heavy trip, especially for the out-of-shape hiker. Brownsberg[ edit ] This park is situated 130 km (90 mi) south of Paramaribo, and can easily be reached by car. The park headquarters and tourist bungalow/lodges are situated on the cool, 500 m (1500 ft) high Mazaroni Plateau. At several places on the plateau there is a beautiful view over the Brokopondo Reservoir. And trails lead to creeks, waterfalls and lookouts, giving spectacular panoramic views of the interior. Except for the park staff, there is no permanent habitation in the park itself.

The Brownsberg is known for its rich flora and fauna. The Brownsberg is also a paradise for birdwatchers. Of the 650 birds known for Suriname, more than 200 can be found here. Some of the birds are rarely seen because they live in the forest canopy, although their songs and whistling are heard regularly. Irenevallen is a waterfall of about 10 m high in the Brownskreek. It is about an hour's walk from park headquarters. After a heavy rain it is wonderful to stand under this natural shower. Witikreek is a secluded rushing stream at the foot of the Brownsberg. You can walk to it in about a two-hour downhill hike. Once there you can swim, nap in a hammock, and have a picnic. Galibi Nature Reserve[ edit ] Galibi Nature Reserve is world famous as a nesting site for endangered sea turtles. Four species come ashore to lay their eggs between February and August. The nearby Amerindian villages of Christiannkondre and Langemankondre can also be visited, giving you an opportunity to purchase Carib indian artwork. This is a wonderful place to relax for a few days.

Here are undisturbed sea turtle nesting beaches, where you have the best chance to observe different species of turtles: the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), the leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), and the olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea). Eilanti Beach is the only beach where mass nesting aggregations (arribadas) of the olive ridley are known to have occurred in the Atlantic region. The hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) nests only sporadically in Suriname with rarely more than twenty-five nests per year for all of Suriname. The Galibi Nature Reserve is situated in the Northeast corner of Suriname, at the mouth of the Marowijne River, bordering French Guiana. Because the saline oceanic Guiana Current and the freshwater flow of the Marowijne River collide along the east and north borders of the reserve, it is exposed to many different environmental factors. This results in a great biological diversity characterized by the Suriname coast. The Galibi reserve and the nearby Amerinidan villages are accessible only by boat, about 1 1/2 hours downstream from the drop in point, Albina.

The villagers are allowed to use the reserve for fishing, hunting, plant collecting and small-scale agricultural activities. Upper Surinam river[ edit ] This is the most easily accessible way to go far inland. The road south from Paramaribo branches off just before Brownsberg to the south of the Brokopondo Lake. This branch is as of 2010 still under the process of being surfaced. It ends at Atjoni, where the Upper Surinam river begins and where many boats can be found around noon to take you upstream. These regular boats go as far south as Djuumu, where the river branches into Gran Rio and Pikin Rio. In between, the river is littered with guesthouses, way too many of them, so there is plenty of choice and there is generally no need to book ahead. The culture here is quite different from the coast and misunderstandings are to be expected. For example, a surgarge on the agreed price is often added upon leaving for use of the kitchen. So make sure beforehand if this is the case.

And since that can be a relatively high surcharge (eg 10 srd on top of 40 srd for the room), it might be advisible to bring your own cooker. Also, an improptu forest walk with the owner can later turn out to cost 100 srd. On the other hand, if you go paddling in a dugout you are not likely to be charged for that (although it never hurts to ask). And one traveller wasn't even charged anything when during such a trip he ran the boat onto a rock, resulting in a total-loss. Nature Resort Kabalebo[ edit ] Kabalebo Nature Resort lies in the unspoiled west of Suriname. This area is completely uninhabited, allowing one to rightfully speak of "untouched nature". Within a circumference of hundreds of kilometers, you will see nothing except for the flora and fauna of the splendid Amazon rain forest. Where playful monkeys leap through the treetops, the colorful parrots glide above your head and unusual fish leap and quickly swim away down a secluded creek... Besides the numerous unusual birds, colorful butterflies and many dazzling types of fish, you may also come across a member of the cat family, the jaguar.

You may spend hours on exploratory trips together with your guide. But you may also see many animals even if you decide to remain in the vicinity of the lodge. Javanese[ edit ] Although Indonesian food might be appropriate, the Indonesian people we have in Suriname are mostly if not all from the island Java. And Java has its own cuisine distinct from the rest of Indonesian food. Furthermore as you might have guessed the food has evolved to a more Surinamese culture and is thus (very) different from food you'd find in Java. Nevertheless it tastes great and you should try it. The most popular places where you would find such food is in 'warung's' Lelydorp on your way from the airport to Paramaribo , or Blauwgrond in Paramaribo, and since recently near the bridge in Commewijne . Chinese[ edit ] Chinese food tastes great everywhere in the world. Suriname is no exception. Good restaurants can be found in Paramaribo Also try visiting the Chinese market on Sunday and many of their Dim Sum restaurants East-Indian[ edit ] East Indian food is less spicy compared to original Indian food, but still a well appreciated meal.

Drink[ edit ][ add listing ] Suriname wouldn't be the tropical paradise it is without its a wide variety of great fruit juices. Even the well known orange juice is a sensational taste, but do not hesitate to try great tropical fruits like passion fruit (known locally as 'markoesa') or soursap, better known as Guanábana (locally known as 'zuurzak'). Since locals have an appetite for sweet, sugar is added to most juices you buy in bottles. For pure juice it is best to ask for fresh made juice. The Javanese have a pink (and occasionally green) colored drink called dawet, which consists of coconut milk. Try to get a local 'east-indian' to make you a glass of lassi if you have the chance. Alcohol[ edit ] Beer: Try the local 'Parbo-beer', which when comes in 1 liter bottles is called a 'djogo'. In 2008 Suriname finally got Parbo beer in a can, which was somewhat of a major event in the country. Guinness is a popular import beer, and for that reason Parbo also brews a very decent own stout variant: Parbo Stout.

Of course imported beer is also available. Rum: Borgoe and Black Cat. Sleep[ edit ][ add listing ] There are several good hostels and guest-houses available in Paramaribo and Nickerie . See the appropriate page for more information. When going into the rainforest it is best to buy a hammock in Paramaribo. Some guest houses in the forest provide hammocks, but these tend to be less hygenic, since washing machines are not available in the forest. Learn[ edit ] The University of Suriname Universiteit van Suriname [8] However, it should be noted that students wishes to pursue education here must have a working knowledge of Dutch as classes are only instructed in Dutch. Work[ edit ] Working as a foreigner in Suriname without a work permit is illegal, though granted, there is not much of a force to stop you. However, relations do exist between the Netherlands and Suriname for work exchange programs and extra labour, especially those of skilled classes. Stay safe[ edit ] If you are concerned about safety try to avoid venturing at night alone. Try using a bike when possible.

When in Paramaribo at night, avoid the Palm Garden as this is a well known crime site where much drug trade is done. The police force is only so large and can only protect you to a certain extent. Therefore, stay where you know police protection is offered. So please, use common sense when venturing outside downtown, which in itself can have problems. Do NOT venture to the bush (binnenland) alone. Stay healthy[ edit ] To enter Suriname there’s no need for any special kind of vaccination, though some are recommended (see below). If you plan a jungle-trip, which is highly recommended, it is possible that you may want to take precautions against malaria, depending on the area you are planning to visit. There were 729 confirmed cases of malaria in 2013 according to the WHO World Malaria Report. Be sure to check with BOG, or your local pharmacist or health clinic what prophylaxe you should take. The bigger threat nowadays comes from dengue, also spread by mosquitos, for which there is no prophylaxe, nor any cure. Travelers diarrhea can also potentially be a problem. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended.

(Required to get into Brazil afterwards!) Tetanus-diphtheria vaccination is recommended. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended. The Adult HIV/AIDS prevalence is reaching 2% or 1 in 50 adults, which is 3 times higher than the US and 9 times higher than the Netherlands. Be sure to practice safe sex. Respect[ edit ] Be respectful when taking photographs. Like everywhere else, one should respect the environment and the culture. For example the inland-people consider certain trees and spots holy and it is likely you need consent before taking a photograph. Your local guide will usually also indicate so. Ask for consent when you think it is appropriate as you would anywhere else. Alarmnumber, ☎ 115. edit Consulate Embassy of Belgium, Domineestraat 32, bov, Paramaribo, Suriname P.O.B.. 1841, ☎ (+597) 472545, (597) 474690 (fax: (+597) 410563).

edit Embassy of Suriname in Brussels, Avenue Louise 379, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, ☎ (+32) 2 640 1172 (fax: (+32) 2 646 3962). edit Embassy of Brazil, Maratakkastraat 2, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ (+597) 400200 ( brasemb.paramaribo@itamaraty.gov.br , fax: (+597) 400205). 08:00-13:00. edit Embassy of Suriname in Brasília, SHIS QI 9 - conjunto 8 - casa 24, Lago Sul, 71625-080 Brasília - DF, ☎ (+55) 61 3248 3595 ( surinameemb@terra.com.br , fax: (+55) 61 3248 3791). edit Embassy of Canada, Wagenwagstraat 50bov, Paramaribo, Suriname P. O.B.

1449, ☎ (+597) 424527. edit Embassy of the People's Republic of China, Anton Dragtenweg 154, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ (+597) 451570 (fax: (+597) 452560). edit Embassy of Suriname in Beijing, 3-7-1- Kinguomanwai, Beijing 100020, China, ☎ (+86) 10 6532 2939 (fax: (+86) 10 6500 2022). edit Embassy of France, Gravenstraat 5-7, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ (+597) 475222 (fax: (+597) 471208).

edit Consulate of Suriname in Cayenne, 38 ter RUW Christoph Colomb, 97300, Cayenne, French Guiana, ☎ (+594) 300461 (fax: (+594) 317645). edit Embassy of Guyana, Gravenstraat 82, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ (+597) 477895 (fax: (+597) 472679). edit Embassy of Suriname in Georgetown, 304 Church St. P.O.B. 334, Georgetown, Guyana, ☎ (+592) 267844 (fax: (+592) 253476). edit Embassy of India, Rode Kruislaan 10, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ (+597) 498344 (fax: (+597) 499538).

edit Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia, Van Brussellaan 3, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ (+597) 431230 (fax: (+597) 498234). edit Embassy of Japan, Gravenstraat 23 - 25, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ (+597) 474860 (fax: (+597) 412208). edit Embassy of the Republic of Korea, Heerenstraat 8, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ (+597) 484747. edit Embassy of the Netherlands, Van Roseveltkade 5, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ (+597) 477211 ( prm@minbuza.nl , fax: (+597) 477792).

edit Embassy of Suriname in The Hague, Alexander Gogelweg 2, 2517JH, Den Haag, Netherlands, ☎ (+31) 70 365 0844 (fax: (+31) 70 361 7445). edit Consulate of Suriname in Amsterdam, De Cuserstraat 11, 1081CK, Amsterdam,, ☎ (+31) 20 642 6137 (fax: (+31) 20 646 5311). edit Consulate of Suriname in Curaçao, ITC Building IM 124, Willemstad, Curaçao, ☎ (+599) 9 463 6650 (fax: (+599) 9 463 6450).

edit Embassy of Suriname in Port-of-Spain, 11 Maraval Road 5th Floor Tatil Building, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, ☎ (+1) 868 626 0704 (fax: (+1) 868 628 0086). edit Embassy of the United States of America, Dr. Sophie Redmondstraat 129, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ (+597) 472900 (fax: (+597) 425690). Monday – Friday, 7:30 – 16:00. edit Embassy of Suriname in Washington, DC, Van Ness Centre, 4301 Connecticut Ave. - suite 108, Washington, DC 20008, USA, ☎ (+1) 202 244 7590 (fax: (+1) 202 244 5878).

edit Consulate of Suriname in Miami, 7235 NW 19th St Suite A, Miami, FL 33126, USA, ☎ (+1) 305 593 2163 (fax: (+1) 305 599 1034). edit Embassy of Venezuela, Gravenstraat 23 - 25, Paramaribo, Suriname, ☎ (+597) 475401. edit Embassy of Suriname in Caracas, Entre 7a y 8a Transversal, 41 Qta Los Milagros, Altamira, Caracas 1060 A, Venezuela, ☎ (+58) 212 263 1554 (fax: (+58) 212 261 2724). edit

Question: What language is spoken in Surinam in South America?
Answer: DUTCH